protests in Bahrain News

Manama -
Opposition protesters clashed with police in Bahrain on the first of three days of protest that will end on Saturday February 15. The demonstrations mark the third anniversary of anti-government protests in Bahrain during the Arab Spring.

Manama -
Human Rights Watch claims that Bahraini security forces have often used disproportionate amounts of tear gas in suppressing anti-government demonstrations since 2011 when protests first began demanding reforms to the ruling monarchy.

Manama -
In continuing repression of any opposition to the ruling Khalifa monarchy, 37 activists were jailed for up to 15 years for "terrorist crimes." The day before (Sunday Sept. 29) another 50 activists and protest leaders had been sentenced as well.

Manama -
Reforms in Bahrain are progressing very slowly after a landmark report on violence and torture a year ago. The author of the report disputes claims that many of his recommendations are being implemented.

Manama -
Nine medics who were arrested last year during pro-democracy protests have lost their final appeal and now face time in jail. The nine are part of a group of 20 convicted by a military court in 2011, a conviction upheld by a civilian tribunal in June.